A man who was apprehended stealing litchis (exotic fruits) from a home in Durban, South Africa, was handcuffed to a tree and assaulted by angry residents.

According to a Facebook user, two burning incense sticks were placed near his feet, possibly as a form of torture.

It was gathered that the man had gained entry onto the property and stole litchis from several trees.

He was confronted by the homeowner and his family who restrained him to a tree and whipped him with sjamboks and sticks.

Officers were called out to the scene and found that the man has suffered extensive injuries. The handcuffs were then removed.

The homeowner did not desire a criminal case of theft and the suspect was not detained.

When interviewed, the injured man opted to leave without opening a case of assault with Intention to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH).

He further declined medical treatment.